Kangana Ranaut Calls for Unity Amid Marathi-Hindi Language Row in Maharashtra

Image Source : NDTV

As tensions rise in Maharashtra over linguistic identity, actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut has stepped into the spotlight with a firm message of national unity. Speaking in the wake of a controversial incident involving Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers assaulting a shopkeeper for not speaking Marathi, Ranaut emphasized that language should not become a tool for division in a diverse country like India.

Key Highlights from Kangana Ranaut’s Statement

- Ranaut stated that the spirit of unity must be preserved and that people should not be divided in the name of language
- She acknowledged the emotional and cultural significance of regional languages but urged citizens to embrace inclusivity
- Her comments came during a visit to Siraj Valley in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, where she was overseeing relief efforts following a devastating cloudburst

Context Behind the Language Controversy

- The row erupted after MNS workers allegedly assaulted a Gujarati shopkeeper in Mumbai for not conversing in Marathi
- The incident reignited debates around linguistic pride versus linguistic imposition, especially in a state with a large migrant population
- Political parties including MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT) have been vocal about preserving Marathi as the primary language in public and commercial spaces

Kangana’s Broader Message on National Integration

- Ranaut, who began her acting career in Mumbai and represents Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi constituency, highlighted the importance of linguistic harmony in a multilingual nation
- She questioned whether tourists and migrants should be subjected to violence for not knowing a regional language
- Ranaut stressed that such incidents erode public trust and threaten the social fabric of the country

Relief Work and Political Critique

- During her visit to flood-hit areas in Himachal Pradesh, Ranaut also criticized the state government’s response to the disaster
- She praised the Centre’s efforts, citing the deployment of NDRF and Army teams for rescue operations
- Ranaut’s dual focus on local governance and national unity reflects her growing political engagement beyond the entertainment industry

Looking Ahead

- The language debate in Maharashtra is expected to remain a flashpoint, especially with upcoming legislative sessions and civic elections
- Ranaut’s intervention may influence public discourse, particularly among younger voters and urban migrants who navigate multiple linguistic identities daily
- Her call for unity could serve as a counter-narrative to regional polarization, reinforcing the idea of India as a pluralistic and inclusive democracy

Sources: NDTV, MSN India, Loksatta, News18 Hindi, ThePrint, Indian Express